The Botswana–China (Linyi) Investment and Trade Conference was successfully held at Linyi
city in Shandong Province, marking another significant step in strengthening economic and
trade ties between Botswana and China.
The event brought together more than 150 participants, including senior government officials,
business leaders, and representatives from both countries. The Botswana delegation was led by
H.E. Dr. Batlang Serema, Ambassador of Botswana to China. Mr. Miles Nan, Special Advisor
and Presidential Envoy for Trade and Investment Affairs of The Republic of Botswana (Asia-
Pacific) and Executive Chairman of the Botswana–China Friendship Association and His
Worship Mr. Olebile Motlaleng, Mayor of Gaborone.
From the Chinese side, Mr. Sun Deshi, Executive Vice Mayor of Linyi, extended a warm
welcome to the delegation and highlighted Linyi’s long tradition of openness and its commitment
to fostering practical cooperation with Botswana and African partners.
In his opening address, Ambassador Dr. Batlang Serema expressed sincere thanks to the Linyi
Municipal Government for their warm hospitality and to the Office of the Special Advisor and
Presidential Envoy of Botswana for organizing the conference. He highlighted the strong
friendship between Botswana and China, especially as the two countries celebrate 50 years of
diplomatic relations.
Dr. Serema emphasized Botswana’s stable political environment, transparent policies, and the
support of the Embassy in China to facilitate investment and partnerships.
Mr. Miles Nan, the Presidential Special Envoy, delivered a keynote presentation entitled
“Beyond Diamonds: Botswana’s New Investment Landscape.” Drawing on his decades of
experience in Botswana, he shared insights into the nation’s ongoing economic transformation
under the leadership of President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko. Mr. Miles outlined key
opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, mining, energy, logistics, and digital industries,
emphasizing Botswana’s openness, transparency, and business-friendly policies.
“Botswana is not just one of Africa’s promising economies — it is a trusted partner for long-term,
inclusive, and sustainable development,” he said. “We welcome Chinese enterprises, especially
from dynamic cities like Linyi, to participate in Botswana’s journey of modernization and
diversification.”
His Worship Mr. Olebile Motlaleng, Mayor of Gaborone also addressed the meeting, reflecting
on the city’s transformation from a small town to a modern African capital. He expressed
confidence that Gaborone and Linyi could establish a model of city-to-city cooperation through
shared experience in infrastructure, logistics, and urban development.
“Our partnership will not only bring economic growth,” he noted, “but also foster mutual
understanding and friendship between our peoples.”